Top Classic Board Games for 2025

Board gaming has never been more exciting, thanks to the wide variety of new options available today. Whether you're looking for family board games, strategy board games, or any other genre, there's something for everyone. However, the allure of modern games doesn't diminish the value of older classics. These timeless games have remained popular among both beginners and seasoned players for good reason, standing the test of time with their enduring appeal.

TL;DR: The Best Classic Board Games

### Azul Board Game

1See it at Amazon### Pandemic

0See it at Amazon### Ticket to Ride

0See it at Amazon### Catan

0See it at Amazon### Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

0See it at Amazon### Can't Stop

0See it at Amazon### Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

0See it at Amazon### Diplomacy

0See it at Amazon### Yahtzee

0See it at Amazon### Scrabble

0See it at Amazon### Othello

0See it at Amazon### Crokinole

0See it at Amazon### Liar's Dice

0See it at Amazon### Chess - Magnetic Set

0See it at Amazon### Playing Cards

0See it at Amazon### Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

0See it at AmazonModern games are largely a result of design trends that emerged in the mid-'90s. Exploring the classics from before this period can be incredibly rewarding. Here, we present some of the best classic board games, listed in reverse chronological order, that continue to captivate players.

Azul (2017)

### Azul Board Game

1See it at AmazonAzul is a modern classic that, despite its 2017 release and its categorization as an abstract game, has quickly become a favorite. Its aesthetic appeal is undeniable, featuring vibrant, chunky tiles reminiscent of sweets. The gameplay is straightforward: players take matching tiles from pools and arrange them on their board, scoring points for completing rows, columns, and sets. Yet, the depth and interaction within this simple mechanic are astonishing. For more details, explore our in-depth review of Azul or look into its many expansions.

Pandemic (2008)

### Pandemic

0See it at AmazonPandemic is the trailblazer of cooperative games, a genre now thriving with popularity. It wasn't the first to feature players teaming up against the game, but its blend of innovative mechanics and accessible rules has made it a global hit. Players work to cure diseases spreading across the world before outbreaks become uncontrollable. Dive deeper into the game with its numerous expansions and off-shoots.

Ticket to Ride (2004)

### Ticket to Ride

0See it at AmazonDesigned by Alan R. Moon, Ticket to Ride and its expansions are based on the classic card game Rummy, making it easy to learn and play. Players collect cards to build train routes and connect cities, competing in a tight and tense race where blocking opponents can be as crucial as building your own routes. Its mass-market appeal has solidified its place in the world of board games. Explore the various versions and expansions available to enhance your experience.

Settlers of Catan (1996)

### Catan

0See it at AmazonNow simply known as Catan, this game was revolutionary when it debuted. Its unique combination of dice mechanics, trading, and route planning set it apart and kickstarted the modern board gaming movement. While it may have lost some of its initial fervor, its historical significance and engaging blend of luck and strategy make it worth revisiting.

Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective (1981)

### Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective

0See it at AmazonA pioneering blend of board game, mystery, and choose-your-own-adventure, this game was ahead of its time. Players solve cases in Victorian London, piecing together clues and solving puzzles to outdo the great detective himself. Its atmospheric storytelling and engaging scenarios make it a must-play, with numerous expansions to keep the mystery alive.

Can't Stop (1980)

### Can't Stop

0See it at AmazonThis Sid Sackson classic is an exhilarating race to the top of three columns on the board. Players roll dice to advance, facing the constant temptation to keep rolling or end their turn safely. The balance of luck and skill keeps players on the edge of their seats. Enjoy it as a board game or try the mobile version for a modern twist.

Acquire (1964)

### Acquire 60th Anniversary Edition

0See it at AmazonSid Sackson's Acquire is often cited as a precursor to modern board gaming. In this game, players create, merge, and invest in companies on a grid, blending spatial strategy with economic tactics. Its 60th Anniversary Edition brings this timeless game back to life. For a deeper understanding, read our review of this edition.

Diplomacy (1959)

### Diplomacy

0See it at AmazonDiplomacy has been known to test friendships for over half a century. Designed to simulate the political geography of 19th Century Europe, it requires alliances and strategic planning, with betrayal often inevitable. The simultaneous movement mechanic adds a thrilling layer of unpredictability.

Yahtzee (1956)

### Yahtzee

0See it at AmazonYahtzee is the quintessential roll-and-write game, where players fill a scorecard based on dice rolls. It's more strategic than it appears, with the thrill of luck and the skill of choosing the right time to score points. It's fast, fun, and perfect for family game nights.

Scrabble (1948)

### Scrabble

0See it at AmazonScrabble is a beloved word game that challenges players to build words on a grid. While turns can be long, the game's mix of vocabulary and spatial strategy keeps players engaged. Its widespread popularity makes it easy to find opponents, and it's a great game to enjoy with a phone handy between turns.

Othello / Reversi (1883)

### Othello

0See it at AmazonOften mistaken for an ancient game, Othello is a relatively modern abstract strategy game. Players place disks on a grid, flipping opponent's disks by sandwiching them between their own. The game's simple rules belie the deep strategic play it offers.

Crokinole (1876)

### Crokinole

0See it at AmazonCrokinole is Canada's premier dexterity game, requiring players to flick disks into scoring zones. The game's boards are not only functional but also beautiful pieces of craftsmanship. The challenge of flicking disks while strategically positioning them adds to the excitement.

Perudo / Liar's Dice (1800)

### Liar's Dice

0See it at AmazonKnown under various names, Liar's Dice is a game of bluffing and bidding. Players secretly roll dice and bid on the total number of a specific value among all players. The mix of statistics, guesswork, and deception makes every game a thrilling experience.

Chess (16th Century)

### Chess - Magnetic Set

0See it at AmazonChess, one of the most recognized strategy games, traces its roots back to 600 AD. Originating from the Indian game Chaturanga, it has evolved into a global phenomenon. The game's depth and complexity continue to attract players of all ages, making it a staple in any board game collection.

Playing Cards (~900 AD)

### Playing Cards

0See it at AmazonOriginating in China, playing cards are a versatile gaming tool, offering thousands of games from poker to bridge. With a standard deck, you can explore numerous games worldwide, from Jass to Scopa, and even modern strategic games like Ambition. A deck of cards is all you need for endless entertainment.

Go (~2200 BC)

### Go - Magnetic Board Game Set

0See it at AmazonGo, a game of staggering depth and strategy, originated in China and Japan. Players place stones on a grid, capturing opponent's stones by surrounding them. Its simple rules hide a complex strategy that has only recently been challenged by AI. Go is a game that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.

What makes a board game a “classic”?

The term "classic" in board gaming is subjective and depends on various factors. Key indicators include sales figures, influence on game design, and brand familiarity. For instance, Ticket to Ride, with over 10 million copies sold, is a classic due to its widespread popularity and accessibility. Influence is evident in games like Acquire, which introduced innovative concepts well ahead of its time, despite its limited mainstream recognition. Finally, brand familiarity is crucial, as seen with timeless games like chess or Diplomacy, which are instantly recognizable even to those who haven't played them. These elements collectively define what makes a board game a classic, transcending mere popularity to achieve a semi-mythical status in the world of gaming.